Whithorn tourist information

Whithorn is a small town with a large role in Scottish history. It was here that St Ninian, Scotland's first saint, established his church in the 4th century and brought Christianity to the country. The name of the town is thought to derive from this first church building, the White House.

The original church was replaced by a more impressive priory in the 1100s, by which time Whithorn was firmly established as a place of pilgrimage to St Ninian's grave. The ruins of the priory and a 13th century chapel are maintained today by Historic Scotland. The Whithorn Story Visitor Centre gives further information on the fascinating history of the town, and exhibits early Christian artefacts.

Close by is St Ninian's Cave, traditionally thought to have been a place of prayer and reflection for the saint. Christian symbols and offerings have been found here, perhaps left by the many pilgrims who made their journey to this scared site.